July 2008 Mental Health Awareness Weeks

Though it’s not going to be as busy as March was, July has its own fill of important awareness weeks to remember.

The month of July includes:

Alzheimer’s Awareness Week (July 6 – July 12) For more information, visit the Alzheimer’s Society.

OK, so Alzheimer’s Awareness Week is the only awareness week in July directly related to mental health (of which I’m aware, that is); however, I thought the following awareness weeks were definitely at least indirectly related and worth a mention.

Sobriety Checkpoint Week (June 30 – July 4): Important for everyone and, in the world of mental health, important for those who deal with, or have loved ones who deal with, dual diagnosis.

Therapeutic Recreation Week (July 13 – July 19): I’m a workaholic, but any phrase that includes the words “therapeutic” and “recreation” certainly grabs my attention.

International Massage Week (July 20 – July 26): Honestly, who isn’t relaxed and feeling less stressed after a good massage?

I used Pam Pohly’s Net Guide’s Health Observances and Health Care Recognition Dates; the National Health Information Center’s YEAR 2008 AT A GLANCE; and What Health’s Health Current Events to find out about these events. If you know of any additions or corrections, send them my way.

If you’ve planned anything special for any of these awareness weeks, feel free to share in the comments!

If you have a mental illness and are still living the life you love, head on over to This Is Why I ROCK! and enter!